Insomnia is an incredibly common problem in the US. The most common causes are stress and anxiety. Many of us can’t help the hectic natures of our day-to-day lives, but there are still some easy things you can do to help get to sleep and stay asleep.
Stick to a Regular Bedtime Schedule – Go to bed at the same time every night. This way, you’ll train your body to go to sleep when you need it to. It also helps to establish a relaxing nighttime routine, such as reading a book or listening to relaxing music before bed.
Exercise every day – Only half an hour of exercise a day will allow you to sleep much more deeply.
But not right before bed – Exercise too close to bedtime and you’ll be too amped up to fall asleep. Plan to exercise at least two hours before bedtime.
Don’t nap too much – Naps during the day can be relaxing and refreshing and can help you get through the afternoon when you haven’t had enough sleep the night before. But napping too much will make it harder to fall asleep when it really counts. Keep you naps around 10-20 minutes, and don’t nap too close to bedtime.
Stop trying – Spending hours trying to force yourself to sleep will only make you frustrated—and less sleepy. If you’ve been lying awake for more than twenty minutes, don’t try to force it. Get up and do a relaxing activity until you become sleepy naturally.
If your insomnia gets too bad, see a doctor. And remember that Neighbors has 24 hour emergency care in Houston and Austin, so you can get the care you need no matter how late you’re up.